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Sinners Duet #1

By Sin to Atone

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A steamy, Forced Proximity Secret Society Romance by Bestselling Author Natasha Knight.

I crossed him. Now he owns me.

When I tried to blackmail Ezekiel St. James, I thought it would be easy.

Turns out I had no idea who I was dealing with.

The moment his steel-grey eyes locked on mine, I knew the game was over.

He knew exactly who I was. What I’d done.

And he wasn’t going to let me walk away.

With his immense wealth and power, he had me kidnapped.

He could make me disappear.

I’m no easy prey, though, and it’s not just my life on the line. I have to protect my sister.

But when I’m hurt, he does the unexpected. He takes care of me.

In some twisted way, he sees his atonement in me.

Desperate and vulnerable, I need protection.

He offers his, but his terms are as grey as his morals. I’ll be his in every way.

I accept knowing full well the risk. Because when he touches me, my skin catches fire.

And there’s something inside me that wants to belong to him.

274 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 16, 2024

About the author

Natasha Knight

100 books4,926 followers
Natasha Knight is the USA Today Bestselling author of Romantic Suspense and Dark Romance Novels. She has sold over a million books and is translated into six languages. She currently lives in The Netherlands with her husband and two daughters and when she’s not writing, she’s walking in the woods listening to a book, sitting in a corner reading or off exploring the world as often as she can get away.

Write Natasha here:
natasha@natasha-knight.com

Check out her books here:
https://natasha-knight.com

Sign up for her newsletter here:
https://bit.ly/3heleGN

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Facebook Page→ http://bit.ly/29q3s4b
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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
Profile Image for hala.
185 reviews
September 19, 2024
”I wait for her to shift her gaze up to me before I finish my sentence. “Wait. Someone would miss you,” I say. Her expression changes wholly then, all the fire and fury, gone. Tears drop from her blue eyes. She’s prettier for it.”

who needs romance anyways 🫦
Profile Image for Nina ~ Meleth Bookaddicted ~.
1,458 reviews48 followers
September 18, 2024
Natasha Knight masterfully crafts a story that pulls you in from the very start. Before you realize it, you're deeply immersed in the world of a secret society, captivated by hidden agendas, and completely caught up in the intense chemistry between the characters.

Finally, Zeke gets his moment in the spotlight with his own dark duet. He’s everything you'd expect—intense, brooding, and impossibly hot. Blue is the perfect counterpart, and their slow-burn dynamic sizzles throughout the story. The tension builds perfectly, and when these two come together, it’s nothing short of explosive.

And of course, in true Natasha Knight fashion, she ends with a jaw-dropping cliffhanger. Luckly, the conclusion for this duet is just around the corner.
Profile Image for Faiza Daudo.
243 reviews88 followers
September 16, 2024
Why is it that I read so fast and then have to be forced to wait a whole forking month for the conclusion?

By Sin to Atone is the first book in the Sinners Duet. This duet tell the story of Ezekiel St. James, commonly known as Zeke from The Devil's Pawn Duet.

Ezekiel is living a comfortable life in Amsterdam, far away from the city that hold the demons he trying to escape. But that comfort is threatened when he starts being blackmailed by someone unknow.

Forced to go back to his roots, he is surprised when he finds out that his blackmailer is a woman. A woman that on paper doesn't fit the profile.
So he decides to take matter into his hands and turn the tables on her.

A lesson in submission will go a long way. She needs to learn she is not in control. I am. She needs to understand that there are consequences to fucking with a man like me. And until I figure out exactly what she has on me, she will need to learn to heel.


Blue's only worry is her sister's survival. Ridden by guilt over the events from the past and working to remain off the grids, Blue tries to score a check that will be a ticket to a new life for her and her sister. But that blows up in her face and she finds herself kidnapped, bound and forced to submit to a man that will go to extreme lengths to keep his past exactly where it was left-buried.

It has been a while since I was so consumed by a Natasha Knight story. Don't get me wrong, I love the recent works, but if there's one thing Natasha excels at is CNC and this book delivered it.
This book is riddled with secrets and passion. It heart tugging and scorching hot.

I loved being back into one of my favorite worlds which is the IVI and being reunited with Jericho was an added bonus. That man is the personification of possessive and Ezekiel quickly became my favorite of the brothers with this book.

This was a fast spaced book. I was able to read it in one sitting in a matter of few hours and by the time the inevitable cliffhanger rolled by, the only question that permeated my brain was: however will I be able to wait for the sequel?

Thank you to The Author Agency for the amazing opportunity to read an early copy of this book. Natasha Knight is one of my go to author when I want angst and the way this book delivered!
Profile Image for NiCoLeTa E. {Addicted To Books}.
1,464 reviews85 followers
September 24, 2024
***4 "Little convict!" stars***

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“Dangerous games have dangerous consequences, Blue. You’re going to learn that lesson hard.”

It's a common secret that I am obsessed with the IVI world and that I will read anything that Natasha Knight will write!
I was so happy when I realized that we will get Ezekiel's story since I was curious of him since his brother duet!
Add to that, his little convict, Blue and the result was explosive!

"There’s a beast inside this man with his elegant, refined façade. And I’ve woken it."

Ezekiel has been living in Amsterdam for the past five years, away from the things and people that hurt him back in the day. But his temporary peace is shattering when he is starting to receive blackmailing messages.
Now, he is een forced to get back and to deal with the person who is blackmailing him... Imagine his surprise when this person is a girl who doesn't fit the profile!

"She needs to understand that there are consequences to fucking with a man like me."

Blue's life was a living hell! Her only goal is to protect her sister and in order to do it, she needs money and her way of finding cash is to blackmail Ezekiel St. James...
Unfortunately, that decision is coming to bite her in the butt, when she is finding herself bound and captivated by the same man that she was blackmailing...
A man who won't stop at anything to teach her a lesson!

"This was a mistake. Blackmailing a man like Ezekiel St. James was a huge mistake."

I liked Zeke and Blue very much!
Their story started with the wrong foot, but they were so perfect together...
Unfortunately, many secrets and lies are standing between them and Blue's life is in danger. So, will Ezekiel become a protector after being the predator?
Well, I can not wait to see where this story will lead us, especially after the way the first part ended!

“I want to be certain you understand that I own you, Little Convict. You’re mine.”

**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**
Profile Image for K.
140 reviews165 followers
September 27, 2024
“I’m not yours.” She tries to shove past me.
I capture her arm. “Oh, but you are. You’re mine and if you try something like that again⁠—”
“What? What will you do, Zeke? Spank me?”
“I wouldn’t spank you to punish you. You like that too much.”
“Fuck you.”
“That, too, you like too much,” I say, attempting to smile. I expect her to deny it. I prepare myself for her to, but she only flushes pink, glances away. “And I like it too much.” I walk her backward to the wall and cage her in. “I like it too much, Blue.”


i’m a terrible, terrible person for enjoying this, dare i say loving this—for the most part, that is—but i’ve been feverishly ill for a week straight and this hit better than the ibuprofen.
Profile Image for Joyffree.
3,233 reviews58 followers
September 17, 2024
Devoured this in one sitting
Seriously

This ends on a multi-layered cliffy.
So many holy chit moments layered together to craft the final chapter when all Hades broke loose.

I admit Zeke, sorry Ezekiel, is not my favorite character. I understand his heart is 7 sizes too small but still...
What the hades!!!
Even the coldest of hearts could see what she was facing;
Could see she was an innocent just looking to survive
Protecting her loved ones just like you

There were a couple of moments when I questioned my morality or maybe Zeke's
It passed pretty quickly, still
His dark uncaring heart vs her innocent soul
Hard to accept. I wanted to knock him into the next chapter at times

I have so many questions after the closing scenes as well as some concerns for our characters
Also, I am wondering if our heartless will redeem himself in the final book
That is a hard one maybe a 30/70 chance
I need book two!!!!
Profile Image for Booksobsessive .
712 reviews20 followers
September 17, 2024
Natasha Knight writes the story that draws you in and before you know it your lost in the secret society, consumed by the secrets, feel flushed from spice and burning up with the steam.

I loved zeke and Blue. Shes bold yet timid, he’s relentless yet has a slight gentleness together they are a blazing inferno of passion and chemistry.
The Secrets capture you and the further you read the more your invested… and right at the height of enjoyment the cliffhanger is dropped in that epic way to leave you hungry for more and the biggest need, the highest anticipation for the next!
Profile Image for Shelley.
2,622 reviews51 followers
July 9, 2024
By Sin to Atone🐉

By Sin to Atone is the first book in the Sinners Duet and brings Ezekiel St James, aka Zeke, back to New Orleans. The reason he’s back though is due to the fact that someone has the audacity to blackmail him and he’s back to take care of business and continue his life in Amsterdam. However, the person blackmailing him turns out to be a complicated and complex business and he finds himself in New Orleans indefinitely😊

This story is fast paced and full of suspense. We delve once again into the IVI Society world and I feel like we are on the precipice of learning secrets that should never have come to light👀 That ending has me itching for more and I can’t wait to find out what happens next❣️ I received an advanced copy and willingly leave my honest review❤️‍🩹

Profile Image for Lita Thomas.
1,485 reviews23 followers
September 14, 2024
By Sin To Atone (Sinners Duet #1) by Natasha Knight is Ezekiel St. James story. He was introduced to me in Devil's Pawn Duet, which I read over 2 1/2 years ago. I knew I enjoyed the story, but I can say I wish I had reread that story before I started this book. I can say I struggled at the beginning because I was trying to remember what part Ezekiel played and what his back story was. In this story, Ezekiel is being blackmailed by someone who knows something about him that they shouldn't know. He is determined to not only find out who that person is, but he has plans to get them. Blue Thorne is in survival mode. She is using blackmail to not only keep herself but her sister safe and medically taken care of. When she sees Ezekiel, she knows she is in trouble. Her saving grace is in spite of Ezekiel being cruel. There is something about Blue and her sister that speaks to him. This is his chance to atone for not being there for his sister Zoe. When I finally got into the groove of the story, I was at the end. What The Heck!!!!! Yes, it ended with a cliffhanger. Now I have to wait for the conclusion on book 2. I am so excited to see how this ends. I have so many questions that need to be answered. 4 stars for me
Profile Image for Sarah~ Book Obsession Confessions.
1,159 reviews80 followers
September 22, 2024
4.25 STARS
I loved being back in the IVI Secret Society world in atmospheric New Orleans. I love this world and the characters so much. This, book one of a duet can be read without reading the other books in the series. ( Although, I think they’re all fantastic and worthy of adding to your TBR.)
Ezekiel St. James is enigmatic and intimidating. He and his family are part of IVI society and easily wield their power and influence.
Blue is a bit of mystery at first, she is young, struggling financially. She blackmail’s Ezekiel for money not fully grasping the world she’s just put herself in the crosshairs of.
He k!dnaps her to eliminate the threat, he gets more than he bargained for.
Blue is very young, tough but she’s been hurt. He finds himself attracted to her and struggling with his feelings because her motives are not what he first assumed.
It’s a bit dark, super s€xy and intriguing. I love the banter and tension between the two of them.
There are moments when they both let their guard down a little and they begin to see each other differently.
There’s danger lurking and I was on pins and needles waiting for them to make an appearance.
Things come together quickly at the end and it leaves things with a couple of cliffhanger’s that have me desperate for the next book!
Profile Image for Keza Campbell.
617 reviews6 followers
September 12, 2024
AHHHH... I love Natasha Knight's work! Who doesn't when this is the result everytime!

By Sin To Atone, the first in the Sinners Duet and, of course, its set in the world of The Society created by Natasha Knight and A. Zavarelli. Which i absolutely ate up every word of.

Ezekiel St. James is being blackmailed by who is a mystery, but he intends to find out. Blue wants nothing more than to get her blackmail money and leave with her sister, but plans don't always work out now she is caught.

Ezekiel is dangerous, brutal even, and leaves Blue conflicted and confused. Can she trust him? Well, I sure can't wait for By Blood To Avenge to find out.

I was hanging on the edge of my seat for this one. The suspense and mystery had me almost breaking my broken nail-biting habit that I finally quit. The spice level was slow build, but still hot🔥

I absolutely recommend 👌
Profile Image for Julia Butterfield - Stevens.
880 reviews9 followers
September 16, 2024
I love being back in the world of IVI and after falling for Jericho St James in the previously released Devils Pawn duet, I was intrigued and eager to read about his brother Ezekial (Zeke) and the woman that would bring his dark, broken soul back to life.

I loved Blue, she was running scared and desperate enough to blackmail Zeke in order to get herself and her vulnerable sister to safety. Unfortunately she underestimated the power and contacts of Ezekial St James and IVI

This book is told in dual POV. I love hearing both characters thoughts and feelings.
There is a huge spark between Blue and Zeke, enemies to start with, but is it love with all the mistrust and lies? Despite the age gap, their attraction is slow burn burn and sizzling, both questioning their actions toward each other.
With secrets to be revealed that I suspect could rock the society, that cliffhanger has left me in suspense. Can't wait for the conclusion!

4.5 stars
Profile Image for Mimiorphee.
619 reviews39 followers
September 16, 2024
By Sin To Atone is set in the IVI universe, and this time, we follow Jericho's brother, Ezekiel, who we had met in the previous Society books.
I loved going back into this secret world that I had left for a little while. The degree of alfa-ness of the men is just too addictive. Is it too much? Certainly, but it's also so satisfying to watch them shed (some of) their ruthlessness when they fall in love. Blue clearly knows how to challenge Ezekiel. Their banter and arguments always made me smile.
Intense, thrilling, and fun, this first installment is a page-turner. I can't wait for book #2!
750 reviews33 followers
September 22, 2024
Not gonna lie this is my first book into the IVI world but I absolutely loved the beginning to their story. Though Blues age was mentioned, Ezekiels wasn't. It's an age gap so you know he's older. This already was good and I'm glad the rest isn't far away. The chemistry was great and it was well written.
Profile Image for 샘 sam★ .
326 reviews23 followers
September 17, 2024
EZEKIEL ST. JAMES NATION HERE WE GO

I can't believe we finally have Zeke's book, I'm so excited sksksks. I have to say this though - this book was waaaay better than Jericho's Devil's Pawn because honestly, my man deserved a better heroine than Isabelle, she freaking irritated me.

The plot here is really good and basic but oof the whole story is 🙌🏻🙌🏻 I love Natasha Knight's writing, stories, and characters—one of my favourite authors for Dark Romance.

We still inside of IVI - The Society's world - I need more books about it because I'm obsessed.

Bluebird aka Blue, is our FMC, and the story begins when Zeke receives a cryptic message 'I know what you did' from our heroine. She is blackmailing him for 100k or else she will reveal he was responsible for his father's death which will cause big problems for him and his family.

And that was the beginning of a great love story. Just kidding, this book is dark and Zeke is not very gentle with Blue, at all. He will humiliate her, there is a dubcon scene, possessiveness, and there are a lot of hair grabs. And this book ends up with a huge cliffhanger and I'm dying to know the conclusion have mercy NK.

I really liked Blue, she is perfect. Love how feisty and strong she is, like my girl was strong even at a disadvantage, as she should 💅💅 Her story is really heartbreaking and you can't help but understand the things she has done to protect her sister. I like how she is attracted to Zeke but didn't make it so obvs like oooothers - I'm seeing you Isabelle and your bbs - so it was refreshing to read her.

Ezekiel is so hot, I can't even. he was quite harsh towards Blue, but let's understand his part because what Blue was trying to blackmail him could have bigger consequences - Just see Mercedes and Judge's story when he took the blame when she killed a courtesan from the IVI, both being from powerful families - so I kinda understand (mostly, because I love Zeke sssm). Anyway, later on, you will see how slowly he is falling for Blue and how he takes care of her I love it so much. Also, I would like to add that he was soooo possessive with the mine mine mine. I can't recall an NK's hero being like that.

The book is steamy as usual from Natasha's book. You may side-eye their first-time scene because even I also was like... this Lessons in Sin's scene, good times, lol. Hint: blood.

Also, love how they didn’t include the Kimberly issue here like I was so done with that stuff lol - there is a scene where he went to visit his sister’s grave and saw Kimberly’s but was like…

But she’s not who I’m here to see. She never belonged to me and truthfully, I never belonged to her, either. Kimberly was always Jericho’s.


We cheer 🎉🎉🎉 and that as it.


Anywayyy I can't wait to see their conclusion next month, I will be rr lol.

Safety

ow/om: no om and I would say no ow drama but if you want more details - there is a shy woman that was trying with Zeke but he straight up rejected her and this was before he met Blue. There is also another ow that was flirting with him in front of Blue but Zeke was irritated at her and rejected her advances - he told Blue he didn’t have sex with her before but he received a bj from her when he was very drunk, this of course also before meeting the heroine.

Virgin h, manho-ish H. There is an age gap - she is 19, but can’t remember how old he is.
Profile Image for Cigi cini.
353 reviews26 followers
September 6, 2024
🔥Alpha Male
🖤Billionaire
🔥Anti-Hero
🖤Virgin Heroine
🔥Enemies-to-Lovers
🖤Heroine in Danger
🔥Secret Society
🖤Age Gap
🔥Jealous Possessive Anti-Hero

Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️

By Sin To Atone by Natasha Knight is a dark, gripping romance that delves deep into themes of power, control, and the fine line between vengeance and redemption. The story follows a fierce, independent woman who finds herself trapped in the deadly web of Ezekiel St. James, a man of immense power and moral ambiguity. When she tries to blackmail him, thinking it will be an easy task, she quickly realizes she’s in over her head.

The novel wastes no time in setting up the high-stakes game of survival and dominance between Blue and Ezekiel. The moment their eyes meet, she knows she’s lost the battle—Ezekiel is no ordinary target. He’s a powerful man who thrives on control, and once he has her in his sights, he’s not letting go. The dynamics between them are intense and electric from the start.

Ezekiel’s decision to kidnap her after her failed blackmail attempt sets the tone for the dark, dangerous relationship that unfolds. With his wealth, influence, and ruthlessness, he could easily make her disappear. But Blue isn’t a passive victim—she’s a fighter, with her sister’s safety driving her every move. This sets up a compelling push-and-pull dynamic between two strong-willed characters who are at odds but undeniably drawn to each other.

What makes By Sin To Atone stand out is the complexity of Ezekiel’s character. Though he is a man capable of cruelty, he also displays unexpected moments of tenderness and care, especially when Blue is hurt. This duality creates a tension that runs throughout the book, as Ezekiel’s actions oscillate between punishment and protection. His need for atonement, which he sees in Blue, adds a layer of emotional depth to his otherwise hardened exterior.

The chemistry between the leads is fiery and palpable. Their interactions crackle with tension, both emotional and physical, as they navigate a relationship that is far from ordinary. Blue’s internal struggle—her desire to protect herself and her sister versus the undeniable attraction she feels for Ezekiel—creates a compelling conflict that drives the narrative. She knows the risks of giving in to his terms, but the connection between them is impossible to ignore.

Natasha Knight masterfully weaves in themes of sin, redemption, and vulnerability, making this more than just a dark romance—it’s a story of two flawed individuals finding solace in one another, even in the most unlikely circumstances. The moral grey areas that both characters inhabit make their relationship all the more complicated and intriguing.

Overall, By Sin To Atone is a thrilling, emotionally charged story about power, redemption, and the magnetic pull between two characters bound by their dark pasts. Natasha Knight has crafted a tale that will captivate fans of dark romance, offering a compelling mix of danger, passion, and unexpected tenderness. If you enjoy stories where love and control collide, this book is a must-read.
Profile Image for Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾.
2,178 reviews13.4k followers
September 15, 2024
4.5 STARS
You’re mine now, Little Convict. You belong to me.”

What sort of crack does this woman sprinkle into her books that no matter how many times she writes a certain trope, I will gobble it right up and lick every finger clean after? I swear, I will never, and I mean EVER, get enough of her IVI world. If you love dark secret society romance, trust me when I say you need to check this out.

Now if you've read Devil's Pawn, then you'll remember Jericho's brother, Ezekiel St. James. But nothing prepares you for the impact of this man as a main character. Because OH MY OVARIES!
There’s a beast inside this man with his elegant, refined façade. And I’ve woken it. “Let me go.”

If you've read the other duet, then you will already know one of the dark secrets and demons that Ezekiel has. But if you haven't, not worries, because you will easily be sucked into this as a standalone and all relevant details are shared. But you will appreciate his story so much more having read Jericho's duet first. But enough about that.

Ezekiel is a powerful man within the society of IVI, so when he gets blackmailed by a stranger, he's not about to take it lying down. So he tracks her down to an IVI bar and plays the game right back.
Dangerous games have dangerous consequences, Blue. You’re going to learn that lesson hard.”

Blue is a MFC who intrigued me from the very first page. This woman is clearly running from some dark demons in her past, and the more the onion of her past gets peeled back, the more intrigued you are.

The story was fully addictive with a painful cliffhanger which makes me glad the wait for the conclusion is only a few weeks because OMG I NEED ANSWERS.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review

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Profile Image for The Romantic Rush Blog.
2,089 reviews921 followers
September 19, 2024
Dark, delicious, and epically gripping, By Sin to Atone is a wonderfully intoxicating start to the Sinners Duet. I AM FERAL for this world and these characters, and I was consumed by this story from start to finish. Natasha Knight’s signature blend of immersive suspense, edgy dark romance, and mesmerizing broken characters all come together for a beautifully evocative and edge of your seat story that I could not put down. FERAL FOR MORE!

I LIVE for Natasha Knight’s Society world, and I was so excited to see the other St. James brother Zeke was getting a story. (his brother Jericho’s story was the Devils Pawn Duet). Zeke is being mysteriously blackmailed….dangerous because, well, Zeke does indeed have some nefarious skeletons in his closet. But he also has resources and endless reach, which brings him back to New Orleans to take care of his little blackmail problem. Only problem? Turns out his problem is an alluring, defenseless but fiesty young woman, a girl in trouble, in hiding, and desperate. So of course he does what any self-respecting and deliciously psychotic Natasha Knight Society hero would do…he kidnaps her to keep her for himself until he figures out just what to do with her. YUUUUUMMY.

This story was so entertaining and addictive. I gobbled it up in one sitting, rapidly turning the pages, swimming in the suspense/mystery and the wonderfully toxic and tense chemistry between Blue and Zeke. Natasha’s books are always favorites because of our deftly and uniquely she explores the nexus of power dynamics and desire. I love the way her characters grapple with their own morality in the face of unexpected connection, and the ways in which that plays with their power. Zeke and Blue have a surprising amount in common- both are protecting their family, both have some really messed up family dynamics and trauma weighing on them, and both are beautifully yet tragically lonely. But most of all, their connection to their sisters, and how they are both drowning in the guilt they feel because of choices that they made that they believe impacted their sisters. These two are hurting and entangled with each other in an unexpected way- and GAH the tension, their complicated dynamic, their feral and tumultuous push and pull. I was ravenous for them.

Of course, we have a jaw dropping and mind bending cliff hanger. The twists, the secrets, the lust, and danger! It’s the perfect alluring combination for a page-turner that has me thirsty for more!

What you can expect:
-Alpha Male
-Billionaire
-Anti-Hero
-Virgin Heroine
-Enemies-to-Lovers
-Heroine in Danger
-Secret Society
-Age Gap
-Jealous Possessive Anti-Hero
-Dubcon
-Cliffhanger
Profile Image for mariasbookss_.
189 reviews239 followers
September 17, 2024
Let me start by saying this: Natasha Knight, what exactly are you sprinkling into your books? Is it pure crack? Some sort of addictive magic dust that makes me devour every word like I haven’t eaten in days? Because whatever it is, I’m hooked! Once again, I'm here, licking my fingers clean after inhaling yet another one of your dark, twisty, deliciously dangerous romances. Seriously, someone needs to create a support group for IVI addicts because this series is a one-way ticket to Obsession City, and I am NOT leaving.

Now, let’s talk about Ezekiel St. James, or Zeke, as I like to call him when I’m dreaming about him stealing my soul. If you’ve read Devil’s Pawn, you probably remember him as Jericho’s brother. But buckle up, buttercup, because nothing—absolutely NOTHING—can prepare you for the impact of Zeke as a main character. Ladies, hold onto your ovaries, because this man is here to ruin lives (mine included). Behind his elegant, polished exterior is a beast, and guess what? Blue, the MFC, woke it up. Girl, RUN.

But she doesn’t run—nope, she tries to blackmail him. Sweet summer child, did no one teach you that blackmailing a powerful man in a secret society is about as smart as poking a bear with a stick and expecting cuddles? Zeke is like, “Oh, you think you’ve got me? Cute. Now watch me flip this game on its head.” And thus begins the steamy, tension-filled, dangerous back-and-forth that I LIVE for.

Blue is no wilting flower either. She’s strong, fierce, and so full of mystery that every time a piece of her past is revealed, I was like, “Wait, WHAT?!” She’s running from her demons and is just trying to protect her sister. You’ll find yourself rooting for her, even when she’s making terrible life choices—like, you know, crossing Ezekiel St. James.

And can we talk about the cliffhanger? Natasha, what did I ever do to deserve such torture? You can’t just drop a bombshell like that and leave me waiting for weeks! I read this book in one sitting because, of course, I have no self-control, and now I’m stuck twiddling my thumbs, pacing around my room, waiting for the sequel like it’s a life-or-death situation.

So, here’s my plea: if you love dark romance, secret societies, or men who will absolutely ruin your life (but in the best way possible), pick up By Sin To Atone. Just prepare yourself for the cliffhanger of doom and maybe grab a stress ball. You’ll need it.

ARC courtesy of the author. But honestly, at this point, I’d sell my soul for the next book.






926 reviews28 followers
September 29, 2024
5 +++

This book is the first book that reeled me in from the first page to the last page in sometime. I couldn't put this story down. I was going through a dry spell where I would start a book only to abandon it because the writing was off or the characters or storyline was just another repeat of the last book I'd read. I tried some new authors only to return to those I can count on to produce great stories with characters that stay with me long after the book is finished.

I've read both books from "The Society" and had mixed feelings about both books because of the crux of the story - the Society. I enjoyed them but didn't enjoy what happens in both Santiago and Mercedes's stories. The Society is a sadistic, misogynistic society of men who believe that they rein supreme over everyone in the world. In basic terms is a cult of the rich and powerful who are well placed both domestically and internationally and have the power to control the world.

Blue and Zeke's story is an intense plot that unfolds as Ms. Knight so eloquently weaves a story that is far more than the reader is led to initially believe. Both characters are damaged and both are thrown together when Blue tries to blackmail Zeke so she and her mentally damaged sister have enough money to flee the country from her father and the men he has crossed from The Society. Blue is a young heroine in this book who has a history of making stupid mistakes as in blackmailing a member of the Society. She carries on her the very thing that The Society is looking for to the ball, hiding the valuable information from Zeke and his brother. Not just stupid but deadly for everyone trying to get to the bottom of the mystery. Her decision making is often cluttered with a lack of common sense.

Zeke's and Blue's story reaches a turning point as more evidence is confirmed and the puzzle pieces begin to take shape. Jericho, Zeke's brother reluctantly joins to help find answers to the why's and wherefores of Blue's current circumstances that all lead back to her father and The Society. Blue and Zeke's sexual relationship takes a turn by books' end solidifying the attraction the two have for one another. Zeke has a side to him that he refers to as the " beast" which he keeps hidden but is a part of him where the devil comes out to play. Jericho is dealing with past actions that have brought both he and Zeke to their current relationship of a "love/hate sibling relationship.

A really well written and paced story that is riveting from the first page to the last. This is not a book you want to skim. If this story is anything like the two previous novels you should be prepared to buckle up.
Profile Image for Lisa Conant.
185 reviews11 followers
September 15, 2024
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ out of 5
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶 out of 5

Tropes:
🖤Mafia Romance
💪OTT Protective MMC
🫂Forced Proximity
💰Billionaire MMC
🤐Secret Society
😱Virgin Heroine in Danger
🫦Age Gap

📍Synopsis
I crossed him. Now he owns me.
When I tried to blackmail Ezekiel St. James, I thought it would be easy.
Turns out I had no idea who I was dealing with.
The moment his steel-grey eyes locked on mine, I knew the game was over.

He knew exactly who I was. What I’d done.
And he wasn’t going to let me walk away.
With his immense wealth and power, he had me kidnapped.
He could make me disappear.

I’m no easy prey, though, and it’s not just my life on the line. I have to protect my sister. But when I’m hurt, he does the unexpected. He takes care of me.

In some twisted way, he sees his atonement in me.Desperate and vulnerable, I need protection.

He offers his, but his terms are as grey as his morals. I’ll be his in every way.

📍Review
I was so excited to dive deeper into Jericho's brother, Ezekiel and this totally delivers the goods! He has emotional damage like Jericho but it stems from a different place. Seeing how he deals with betrayal and pain is similarly destructive to how Jericho dealt with his demons in his duet books.

The Blackmail plot works very well and complements the suspense of the secret society/mafia world they reign in.

Zeke is wound tight with anger (and guilt). I was immediately wrapped up in his whirlwind of emotions as he struggles to make sense of the spitfire mystery that is Blue. She goes toe to toe with him even though she has her own traum@s she's working through plus has the added dichotomy of a temperamental (and s3xy) captor.

I also LOVE that Jericho and Isabelle are back! The brother bond is strong, complex and so fascinating to watch. This is another riveting mafia romance that's just as compelling as Jericho's duet and is absolutely packed with dense character driven turns of drama but also some hamdwringing suspense and action sequences! I love this world and the St. James Brothers have my undying man-crush and devotion!
Profile Image for Jesi White.
Author 0 books63 followers
September 18, 2024

I have been waiting to read this duet since it was announced, and I'm so excited to read the conclusion in a month. The Sinners Duet focuses on the story of Ezekiel and Blue, who are brought together when she tries to blackmail him.

Ezekiel has been living in Amsterdam but comes back to New Orleans to find the girl who's trying to hold him by puppet strings. Blue doesn't fit the bill to make him the blackmailer, but he's determined to bend her to his will to make sure she understands that he cannot be dominated—not even for money.

Blue's past has made hold a lot of guilt. She must worry about her older sister who has been suffering from a traumatic head injury for the past couple of years. When Blue finally meets Ezekiel, she finds herself thrown behind lock and key in one of the St. James homes.

Something that struck me as different in their duet has been that Ezekiel isn't as harsh as the rest of the men in this universe have been. He's more sentimental and doesn't force her to stay in her land as the other girls have been. He's been willing to let her talk and visit her sister... of course, with a strong arm. Even Jericho, his brother, has questioned his motives for keeping her with him. The question is will he continue to be this way or will the conclusion of their story change him as a character?

⭑⭑⭑ 𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐒 ⭑⭑⭑
- age gap, alpha male, anti-hero mmc, billionaire romance, captive romance, damsel in distress, enemies to lovers, possessive mmc, secret society, sexual tension, virgin heroine

ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ #bysintoatone #natashaknight #agegapromance #billionaireromance #captiveromance #enemiestolovers #secretsociety #bookreview #romancebooks #Romance #booknerd #BookEdit #bookrecs #booklover #bookstagram #books #bookaddict #spicybooks #filthyreads #bookaesthetic #booktok #booksbooksbooks #booksyoumusyread #newrelease #edits #igreels
Profile Image for ljamison.
794 reviews
September 19, 2024
This book is about Ezekiel (Jericho’s brother from The Devil’s Pawn Duet). I loved the books about Jericho and his relationship with his brother and I’m glad that Ezekiel finally gets his own book and we learn his full story since there were so many mysteries surrounding him. So Ezekiel is a member of the secret society but his family has really suffered some horrible tragedies and he’s being blackmailed for something he did years ago. Ezekiel is able to find out that Blue is blackmailing him but he is not exactly sure what she knows about what he did. So he decides to keep her hostage in an empty house until he can find out all her secrets. Now Blue indeed has a lot of secrets. She has been horribly disfigured and is on the run with her sister who has some sort of illness. Blue is only blackmailing Ezekiel because she needs the money so that her and her sister can move to Canada. Unfortunately Ezekiel is a very dark man who is tormented by his past and the secrets he has kept hidden. He longs for a life like his brother with a wife and family but he can’t get past the horrible things he feels let occur. Blue has had terrible things happen to her but her scars are on the outside and Ezekiel’s scars are inside. These two are meant to be together. The attraction and desire sizzles between them, this is an age gap romance since he is significantly older than her. I like how Blue has had to be tough and although she tries to stand up to Ezekiel it’s just useless but she never stops. I like how Ezekiel thought this would be an easy mission, find out what she knows, get rid of her and then leave town, but he become caught up in her and his feelings for her. This was another amazing story from Natasha Knight with lots of mysteries, twists and turns, secrets and suspense and of course another cliffhanger.
Profile Image for Renee.
4,521 reviews63 followers
September 16, 2024
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.

This is the first book in the Sinners Duet. This is the story of Ezekiel and Blue. If you have read the Devil's Pawn Duet then you met Mr. St. James in that book. I love that this series involves a secret society. It's where I fell in love with secret society books. Ezekiel has been away for a while and probably didn't intend to come back to New Orleans. However, he is now being blackmailed for some things that have happened in his past and he isn't really sure who it is. However, when he finds out that this person works for the IVI in their club he high tails it back to town to figure out what is going on and how much they know. Blue is a girl who gosh this poor girl. Her story will break our heart for her and her sister. But she has to look out for both of them. She could do so many things with the money. However, she has her sister to look out for and is on the run. I will let you discover the how's and whys of all this as you are reading. I loved this story. I hung on every word of this book. I really loved these characters. Blue is in a bad place and making some crazy decisions, but she also is still not telling the entire truth in this book. Ezekiel is rich and powerful and really well connected right along with his brother Jericho who I loved seeing again in this book. He just wants the truth and to go. However, he find himself in a place that she wants the girl he shouldn't and really finds himself wanting to protect her. I can not wait to get the next book in my hands. That cliffhanger will leave you breathless.
Profile Image for Caged Soul.
101 reviews2 followers
September 22, 2024
"You're mine now, little convict. You belong to me"

Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice - 🌶 🌶


Tropes

🩶 Mafia Romance
🩶 Protective MMC
🩶 Secret Society
🩶 Vitgin Heroine
🩶 Age gap
🩶 Alpha male
🩶 Damsel in distress


I'm in love with this book and the way story unfolds is really beautiful.

Ezekiel is a strong, broody, alpha and powerful man in IVI society. No one dares to mess with him.

Ahm ahm girlies, control your hormones as this man us worth the hike and oh my god the man is epitome of elegance but someone tries to unleash the beast (i want to see him once). So Better Run

But one night he got a cryptic message and someone trued to Blackmail him but he was not one of them who sits back and wait for something more.

He knows what he wanted and he had the ways and he tracked and it reached New Orleans.

"Dangerous games have dangerous consequences, Blue. You're going to learn this lesson hard way"

Blue, our FMC is sweet and sunny vibe girl. She should run away but no she decided to wake up the beast.

"I crossed him. Now he owns me"

Blue had her own past demons eating her alive but she had to take care of her sister and she was driven by it. She needs money and she thought the smartest option was to dance in front of hungry bear (Ezekiel)

He is ruthless, dangerous but he has something under the facade of his guardedness. He is an intense character.


The book is filled with steamy tension, possessiveness, jealousy, hotness and the unstoppable twists and the chemistry on the top..

As it was duet I was prepared for the cliffhanger but lie if I say I'm impatient right now.. can't wait 🩷
43 reviews
September 17, 2024
ARC Review: By Sin to Atone.

Kidnapping the Blackmailer? Oh, the Drama!

Well, well, well, *By Sin to Atone* really came in hot with this duet’s first part, and let me tell you, I’m totally hanging off that cliff right now. Seriously, where’s part two when you need it?

Okay, let’s get into it. First off, can we talk about the name *Ezekiel*? Obsessed. And this book had my fave trope—secret society vibes with just the right amount of mystery. Natasha Knight kept that part on lock, and I was living for it.

The story kicks off with Blue blackmailing Ezekiel (yep, bold move, girl!) and him straight-up kidnapping her. Now, let me just say, heads up for those who aren’t into this kind of dynamic—it gets intense. Ezekiel might’ve treated Blue wrong at times, but hey, the man also vowed to protect her and her sister, and it’s clear he’s catching feelings. He just won’t admit it. *Classic.*

Blue? Oh, she’s a total badass. Strong, daring, and doing whatever it takes to save her sister—even if it means landing herself in trouble. Despite the whole kidnapping situation, she never gives up. Loved how she kept trying to escape and fight back, even when things got tricky.

The best part? These two are clearly in denial. One’s a blackmailer, the other’s a kidnapper, but the sparks? Oh, they’re there, no matter how much they pretend they don’t care.

All in all, Natasha Knight delivered a page-turner, and I’m counting down the days till part two!

Thankyou The Author Agency and Natasha Knight for giving me the chance to arc read this book.
Profile Image for Maz.
1,249 reviews29 followers
September 26, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️ 🌶️. 5

Omg, noo that cliffhanger. How could it be? Doesn't make sense!!!!
Wow this definitely captivated me from the start. It was fast paced and super intriguing, literally had no chance of stopping.
Zeke is being blackmailed for a secret only he knows. Now someone is threatening him and his family. He is such a Don, so grumpy and demanding. He has a broken past but I still don't know fully what,It's a mystery. So obviously I'm hooked with every page as I want more.
Blue is amazing she is so feisty smart, sarcastic and witty. She is so grown up for her age purely because what she had gone through and now is doing everything to protect her sister. So hence why she was blackmailing Zeke. She thought it would be easy and she could escape with her sister. Unfortunately she has met her match and got caught.
Zeke doesn't know why but he can't seem to let her go. There is no softness in him but deep down some of things he does you can see he does have a heart. These two were absolutely perfect for each other, literally made for the other.. I loved their interaction and the dry humour at times. It was very emotional at times when you hear the ordeal. It's heartbreaking.
No matter what she is his and he will protect her. Unfortunately that end has left me so confused and soooo scared!!!!!
Need Book 2 ASAP.
This is Dark Society Romance with action, deep plots and spice. Please check triggers before reading.

“You’re mine now, Little Convict. You belong to me.”

“You’re very pretty when you cry.”
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